Barcelona Defender Coy On Blues Interest

Former Arsenal defender Thomas Vermaelen, who played under Ronald Koeman at Ajax, wasn't willing to comment too much on reported Everton interest in the Barcelona man.

However, the Belgium international has thrown his support behind the under pressure Blues boss.

Under Koeman the central defender was handed his senior debut at Ajax and an interest in adding the seasoned campaigner to the Goodison Park ranks was rumoured in the summer - not that Vermaelen was giving much away when quizzed on our interest.

Vermaelen told Sky Sports: 'I don't want to go into details. Barcelona always said they didn't want to let me go. All big clubs need at least four centre-backs. They were happy with my pre-season and kept me.'

Despite Barcelona's refusal to let him leave Vermaelen is yet to make an appearance for the La Liga leaders so far this season. If this doesn't change, assuming Koeman turns things around and retains his job, perhaps the boss could return for the Belgian in January?

Whatever happens a turnaround in form and fortunes is expected with Vermaelen backing Koeman but also calling for patience from the Goodison ranks.

'He's shown at Southampton and Ajax that he's a great manager,' added Vermaelen. 'He has the experience to turn it around for sure.'